Photo: The UAAP
The highly-anticipated rookie, Shaina Nitura, did not waste time in introducing herself to the collegiate stage as she exploded for 33 points to fuel the Adamson University Lady Falcons’ comeback win over the Ateneo Blue Eagles, 21-25, 20-25, 25-12, 25-15, 15-12, in a grueling five-set match in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena, Sunday.
Nitura scattered her scoring output with 28 attacks, four blocks, and an ace, while co-rookie Frances Mordi contributed 23 points composed of 16 attacks, five blocks, and two aces. Another rookie in setter Fhei Sagaysay fanned out 10 excellent sets.
Mordi delivered the finishing blow in the fifth set to complete Adamson’s comeback win in their UAAP debut.
After staring at an 0-2 deficit heading into the third frame, the Lady Falcons found their rhythm in the third and fourth sets, where they dominated the Blue Eagles, 25-12 and 25-15, respectively.
Converted opposite spiker AC Miner flourished in her new role, leading the Ateneo in scoring with 18 points in 16 attacks and two blocks, while Yvana Sulit and Zel Tsunashima added 10 markers apiece.
The San Marcelino-based squad will look to make it two wins in a row when it faces the De La Salle University Lady Spikers on February 22, Saturday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre at 5:00pm.
